Netflix is proving to not only be the go-to streaming service for racial diversity, but for content that embraces the LGBT community as well. As we wrap up Pride month, check out these six Netflix series featuring LGBT characters of color who keep us laughing and crying while reminding viewers they aren’t alone.
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
This comedy from the mind of Tina Fey stars Ellie Kemper and Broadway star Tituss Burgess, who plays aspiring actor Titus Andromedon, a hilarious and proud gay man who steals just about every scene.
Master of None
Stand-up Aziz Ansari’s brainchild, Master of None, discusses race, gender and sexuality with an openness rarely found within comedies. Co-star Lena Waithe plays Denise, the best friend of leading man Dev, who happens to be a lesbian. Waithe went on to win an Emmy for comedy writing based on the episode “Thanksgiving,” where her character comes out to her mom, played by Angela Bassett.
Orange Is the New Black
OITNB features several characters of color who belong to the LGBT community, including Crazy Eyez (Uzo Aduba), Poussey Washington (Samira Wiley) and Sophia Burset (Laverne Cox).
She’s Gotta Have It
The Spike Lee Joint stars DeWanda Wise as Nola Darling, an intelligent bisexual Brooklynite known for juggling her three “boyfriends” as well as part-time lover, Opal Gilstrap (Ilfenesh Hadera).
Sense8
This sci-fi favorite became notable for its representation of LGBTQ characters and themes, winning the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Drama Series in 2016. Creators Lana and Lilly Wachowski and J. Michael Straczynski wanted to address issues such as politics, identity, sexuality, gender and religion with a fantasy twist, making it a unique favorite among fans.
Dear White People
While Dear White People largely deals with race relations on a predominantly White college campus, it also addresses LGBT issues through journalism major Lionel and love interest Silvio. Master of None actress and writer Lena Waithe also joins the cast in Season 2 as MC P. Ninny.
